You could be hearing ‘last call’ from bartenders a little later here in San Diego. That’s if a new bill passes. The idea puts California cities on par with other major U.S. Cities -
with closing times as late as 4 a.m.
San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco are three of the top tourist destinations in the country. But when it comes to nightlife, California differs from about a dozen states because alcohol sales stop at 2 a.m.
Some lawmakers think that puts us at a disadvantage when trying to lure conventions and tourists. And a new senate bill would extend hours to 4 a.m., with restricted situations.
Many people like Josh Fox would welcome the change.
“I feel like it would pull a lot of money, a lot more tourists," Fox said. “I think they should, I think it would be a lot easier, a lot of people on the weekends don’t have anything to do, if they’re still up, they might as well stay out a little longer.”
The idea is to offer a world-class nightlife and increase revenue for businesses. According to a recent San Diego Union-Tribune article, the food and business association of San Diego is behind it.
But on the other side, there are San Diegans who think it's all just a bad idea.
“I think it’s a bad idea, it’s too much alcohol consumption," said Rob Haas.
Folks like Haas see the unintended side effects that they believe would risk public safety.
“They would see a lot more property damage, fights and DUI's and they don’t want to deal with that all night long," Haas said. "It would affect the neighbors. Not good.”
Right now the bill is in “suspense file” which basically means it’s in limbo. 10News will keep an eye on the bill and have updates on any changes.
